🚀 Exciting news! Our latest episode of the Tech On Toast podcast features Rod Schneider, CEO of Workforce.com and Tanda! 🎙️

1/ 🏢 Rod shares his journey from aspiring cricketer to tech entrepreneur, and how Workforce.com is revolutionising workforce management.

2/ 💡 Discover how Workforce.com tackles scheduling issues and reduces employment friction for shift and hourly workers. Their mission? To make work seamless for everyone involved!

3/ 📈 Rod discusses the impact of the pandemic on tech in the hospitality industry and how Workforce.com has adapted to meet the evolving needs of businesses.

4/ 🤖 We dive into the role of AI in workforce management and how it can optimize labor costs while enhancing productivity.

5/ 💬 Rod emphasizes the importance of employee engagement and how Workforce.com helps businesses keep their staff motivated and productive.

6/ 📊 Learn about the significant savings businesses can achieve by using Workforce.com, with some clients seeing a 450% return on investment!

7/ 🛠️ The episode also covers the challenges of payroll and compliance, and how Workforce.com is working to simplify these processes for businesses.

8/ 🎧 Tune in to hear Rod's insights on the future of workforce management and how technology can transform the way we work!

The Tech on Toast Podcast is brought to you by Square.

Square is trusted by over 4 million businesses globally. Get 20% off Square counter top hardware with promo code: SquareUK20 Visit Square.com to use the promo code or to request to speak to our sales team for a demo

👉 Don't miss out! Listen to the full episode now on your favourite podcast platform! #TechOnToast #WorkforceManagement #Podcast #TechInnovation

In our latest episode, I had the privilege of speaking with Oli Cavanagh, co-founder of StrikePay, about how they’re reshaping digital tipping across hospitality and service industries. 💸 Here are some highlights: • StrikePay was born during the first week of the 2020 lockdown, addressing the decline in cash usage. Their solution? Transforming any phone into a payment terminal with NFC tags and QR codes. This innovative product went from concept to revenue in just 91 days! 🔥 “We wanted something super scalable and easy for anyone to use, turning phones into payment terminals,” Oli explained. • Oli shared insights into the Employment (Allocation of Tips) Act 2023, which aims to ensure transparency in tip allocation across the UK. Having already navigated similar legislation in Ireland, StrikePay is well-positioned to help UK businesses stay compliant under the new law. ⚖️ “For someone to come along and clean this up, providing direct visibility of where tips are going and ensuring employees receive what they’ve earned, is huge,” Oli said. • We also talked about the incredible success stories from StrikePay’s implementation, with delivery drivers doubling their income and major organisations like O2 Arena and Make-A-Wish Foundation adopting the system. “That whole process—from never hearing of StrikePay to getting your first tip—takes less than one minute,” Oli emphasized. This episode is a must-listen for anyone in hospitality, beauty, or the charity sector, as we delve into the future of digital tipping and the strategic decisions that have made StrikePay one of the leading innovators in its space. 🌟 🔗 Tune in now and discover how StrikePay can transform your business! #TechOnToast #Podcast #HospitalityTech #DigitalTipping #StrikePay #EmploymentAllocationOfTipsAct2023 #UKTippingAct #FinTech #Innovation #Growth

Grab a cuppa and get comfy, because in this episode we have a natter with Tom Hacquoil, the CEO at Pinpoint. He shares his thoughts on the ever-evolving world of recruitment technology and the candidate experience.

Highlights:

• Hitting the Century Mark (00:01:00): Tom kicks things off by mentioning he’s just boarded his 100th flight this year—talk about clocking up the air miles!

• Finding Your True Calling (00:03:55): He admits that while he enjoys programming, it’s not really his strong suit. Sometimes it’s about knowing where your real talents lie.

• Life’s Cheat Codes (00:05:21): Tom hints at discovering some “cheat codes” that have given him a leg up in life and business.

• Tools of the Trade Matter (00:07:44): We chat about how people choose workplaces based on the tools they’ll have to use—no one wants to be stuck with clunky old software.

• No Substitute for Experience (00:09:34): Tom emphasises that you just can’t beat time spent in the market; experience truly is invaluable.

• Sustainability in Software (00:11:12): He points out that many software companies are “default dead,” lacking sustainable business models—a bit bleak but a reality check.

• Rethinking Recruitment (00:14:00): Leading organisations now treat hiring as a “sell-side” challenge, focusing on attracting talent by showcasing their own value.

• A Word to the Wise (00:15:10): Tom advises against certain strategies that might seem clever but often don’t pay off in the long run.

• The Rise of Automation (00:18:40): We discuss how candidates can now auto-generate CVs and apply to thousands of jobs in a heartbeat, changing the recruitment game.

• Guiding Through Change (00:20:00): Acknowledging that change can be tough, Tom stresses the importance of offering support during transitions.

• Underutilised Tech (00:21:54): He reckons most technology is only used to 70-80% of its capacity—so there’s plenty of untapped potential out there.

• Specialists vs Generalists (00:24:40): Using a brilliant analogy, Tom says if you break your leg, you’d want a leg specialist, not just any doctor.

• Post-Offer Pitfalls (00:26:40): There’s often a sharp drop in candidate experience after a job offer is made, which can affect onboarding and retention.

• The Entrepreneurial Buzz (00:28:24): Tom describes entrepreneurship as a bit of a drug—you just keep coming back for more.

• Customer Feedback Loop (00:30:17 & 00:33:00): Pinpoint prides itself on iterating based on customer feedback, letting the product evolve alongside clients’ needs.

• Direct Appreciation (00:34:02): He shares how clients often reach out personally to express their gratitude when their suggestions are implemented.

• Supercharging Recruiters with AI (00:37:12): The aim isn’t to replace recruiters but to enhance their abilities, making them even more effective.

• AI is All About Use Case (00:39:01): Tom notes that the success of AI hinges on how and where it’s applied within recruitment.

• Benefits of Long-Term Partnerships (00:41:40): Staying with one provider builds up valuable data over time, offering scalable insights.

• Need for Better Benchmarking (00:42:14): He critiques the poor standard of industry benchmarking data, suggesting there’s plenty of room for improvement.

• Learning from Across the Pond (00:45:41): Tom suggests UK businesses look at US recruitment trends to anticipate changes likely to arrive here in about six months.

• Tech That Empowers (00:47:42): He envisions technology increasingly helping people by making their lives easier and providing better data, rather than replacing them.

Wrap-Up:

Whether you’re in HR, recruitment, or just fancy a good tech chat, this one’s definitely worth a listen!

The Tech on Toast Podcast is brought to you by Square.

Square is trusted by over 4 million businesses globally. Get 20% off Square counter top hardware with promo code: SquareUK20 Visit Square.com to use the promo code or to request to speak to our sales team for a demo

In this episode of the Tech On Toast podcast, Chris Fletcher sits down with Mo Fayed, founder of Grub Tech, to dive deep into the world of hospitality technology. They discuss the evolution of tech in the restaurant industry.

Key Topics Covered:

[00:05:30] Automating Restaurant Order Management

Mo explains how Grub Tech’s platform automates the entire order lifecycle, reducing the need for manual processes. This includes everything from managing menus and modifiers to integrating orders from multiple delivery platforms. Streamlining these processes improves efficiency and helps restaurants focus more on customer experience.

[00:08:44] Cloud Kitchens and Virtual Brands

With the rise of cloud kitchens and virtual brands, restaurants can now operate multiple brands from a single kitchen. Mo discusses how Grub Tech supports this trend by providing unified tech solutions that consolidate orders across various platforms, simplifying operations and enabling restaurants to tap into new revenue streams.

[00:12:13] The Importance of Tech Integrations

Grub Tech’s solutions are built to integrate seamlessly with existing POS systems, helping restaurants avoid expensive overhauls. Mo highlights the critical role of integrations in improving efficiency without disrupting current operations.

[00:13:06] Data Visualization for Restaurant Operators

Effective data visualization is key to understanding business performance. Mo shares that Grub Tech’s platform allows restaurant owners to quickly access vital metrics through intuitive dashboards, empowering them to make faster, informed decisions that improve operations.

[00:17:06] Food Aggregator Disputes Explained

One common issue for restaurants is managing disputes with food aggregators. Mo discusses how Grub Tech’s platform helps track and resolve these disputes, ultimately improving the relationship between restaurants and third-party platforms.

[00:22:52] Saudi Arabia’s Digital Infrastructure

Mo provides insights into the digital transformation occurring in Saudi Arabia, where Grub Tech has a strong presence. He talks about how the country’s growing infrastructure is enabling rapid adoption of tech solutions in the hospitality sector.

[00:24:00] AI Product Launch: G-Scout

Mo introduces Grub Tech’s newest AI-powered tool, G-Scout. This product consolidates third-party data, including competitor analysis, to help restaurant operators stay ahead of market trends and refine their business strategies.

[00:26:44] Actionable Insights from AI Data

The conversation shifts to how AI-generated insights can help restaurants optimise menus, streamline operations, and enhance customer satisfaction. Mo gives examples of how G-Scout offers real-time, actionable recommendations that can significantly impact a restaurant’s bottom line.

[00:30:10] AI’s Role in Transforming the Hospitality Industry

Mo closes by explaining how AI is transforming hospitality, from automating processes to helping businesses become more data-driven. He emphasizes that AI will play a critical role in shaping the future of restaurant operations, improving efficiency, and driving innovation across the sector.

Learn more about how Grub Tech is revolutionising restaurant operations and stay ahead of the tech curve by visiting www.grubtech.com. Don’t forget to subscribe to the Tech On Toast podcast for more insights on the latest in hospitality tech!

The Tech on Toast Podcast is brought to you by Square. Square is trusted by over 4 million businesses globally. Get 20% off Square counter top hardware with promo code: SquareUK20 Visit Square.com to use the promo code or to request to speak to our sales team for a demo #TechOnToast #Podcast #HospitalityTech #CustomerExperience #AI #Memories #AccessHospitality #ChangeManagement

In this week’s episode, we had the pleasure of chatting with Champa Magesh, Managing Director of Access Hospitality, who shared valuable insights on the importance of creating lasting memories in the hospitality industry. 🌟 Key Highlights: Memories Over Transactions: Hospitality is not just about service; it’s about creating emotional connections. Champa explains how every significant moment in life—from birthdays to weddings—can be tied to hospitality venues. These experiences shape guest loyalty and return visits. “I think hospitality is a very special industry, right? Because everything that hospitality does, I think, is about building memories.” Emotional Connections & Customer Loyalty: Champa emphasises that hospitality is a people business. The personal touch between staff and guests is crucial, and it’s this human connection that makes customers feel valued and return to venues where they’ve had memorable experiences. Role of Technology in Hospitality: Champa discusses how AI and technology can elevate the guest experience by personalising services, streamlining operations, and anticipating customer needs. But technology should enhance, not replace the emotional connection. Balancing Efficiency with Personal Service: While tech can boost operational efficiency, Champa highlights the need to empower staff to maintain that essential personal touch, ensuring memorable guest experiences while optimising behind-the-scenes operations. 💬 Champa’s Thoughtful Insights on managing change: “I think it’s really important when making change first to recognise what works, what’s the magic that has to be preserved and almost identify it and ring fence it so that you go that bit we do no harm.” 🎧 Tune in to hear more about the power of memories, the role of technology, and how Access Hospitality is shaping the future of guest experiences.

The Tech on Toast Podcast is brought to you by Square. Square is trusted by over 4 million businesses globally. Get 20% off Square counter top hardware with promo code: SquareUK20 Visit Square.com to use the promo code or to request to speak to our sales team for a demo Squareup Europe Ltd is authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority under the Electronic Money Regulations 2011 (registered reference no. 900846). Ts & Cs Apply*Offer commences August 7th and expires 31st October 2024 at 11:59 pm UK time or while supplies last, whichever comes first. Offer is for 20% off the total cost of your first purchase of Square Terminal, Square Stand or Square Register excluding VAT. Limited to 1 Square Terminal, 1 Stand and 1 Register per account holder. Code may be redeemed once only per account holder. Offer applies to UK customers only. Offer not valid with guest checkout. Square reserves the right to modify, revoke or cancel the offer at any time. Offer cannot be combined with any other discount. Offer void where prohibited, not redeemable for cash and is non-transferable.
#TechOnToast #Podcast #HospitalityTech #CustomerExperience #AI #Memories #AccessHospitality #ChangeManagement

In this week’s episode, I had the pleasure of chatting with Nick Paine, the visionary founder of Opspot, and what a conversation it was! 🌟 Nick shared his incredible journey, from working in the Middle East with a Saudi family office to investing in cutting-edge restaurant tech companies in California, and eventually founding Opspot right here in London. His experience with facial recognition technology for ordering kiosks at Pop ID was a standout moment, showcasing how innovation can significantly enhance customer experiences by reducing ordering times for repeat customers. But the star of the show was Opspot, Nick’s game-changing solution for restaurants facing delivery challenges. Opspot uses advanced camera systems to monitor the packaging process, ensuring every delivery order is spot on. As Nick put it, “A restaurant can work as hard as possible and do everything perfectly, and then as soon as they hand over the food, their whole customer experience is blackout.” We explored the operational hurdles that restaurants face, especially during the pandemic, and how Opspot is empowering them by providing a transparent, third-party perspective on where issues occur. Nick shared, “Our goal is to give more time back to the ops managers, right? We don’t think that they should be sitting down every morning for a half an hour, 40 minutes, arguing.” And with an average 15x ROI, it’s clear that Opspot is a product that the industry truly needs. Want to learn more about how Opspot is revolutionizing the way restaurants manage delivery challenges? Tune in to the full episode now, and don’t forget to visit their website at getopspot.com or connect with Nick Payne on LinkedIn. 🎧 Listen now and discover how technology is transforming the hospitality industry! #TechOnToast #Podcast #HospitalityTech #RestaurantTech #Innovation #DeliverySolutions #CustomerExperience

Hey Toasters, 👋 We’re buzzing to share the latest Tech On Toast podcast episode with you! This time, we had a super fun chat with Felipe Diaz Sampa, the General Manager at Otter—aka the guy who’s helping restaurants run smoother than ever! 🦦✨ Felipe’s journey is nothing short of an adventure. Born in Colombia, raised in the vibrant streets of Bogota, and now making waves in the UK after pit stops in Australia—this guy’s got stories! 🌍✈️ His globe-trotting experiences have shaped his unique outlook on life and work, and he's here to spill the beans on how he found his true passion in restaurant tech (spoiler: it wasn’t always this way). Here are some of the gems from our conversation: 1. Always Online, Always Winning 💻💸 Felipe shared how Otter keeps restaurants online 24/7, ensuring they never miss an order. With a 99%+ order injection rate, Otter’s got your back, making sure every order hits your POS system seamlessly. No more missed revenue! 2. Automation Nation🤖🚀 From menu updates to financial reconciliation, Otter automates the nitty-gritty so restaurants can focus on what really matters—delivering amazing food and service. As Felipe put it, "Let the tech do the talking!" 3. Data-Driven Decisions FTW 📊💡 Otter’s analytics and reporting tools are like your restaurant’s Mission Control. They normalise and standardise data from all your platforms, giving you the insights needed to make smarter, faster decisions. Who knew data could be this cool? If you’re in the restaurant biz or just love tech, you’ve got to check out this episode! 🎧 Click the link in our bio to listen now and let us know what you think in the comments below! 🚀

The Tech on Toast Podcast is brought to you by Square.

Square is trusted by over 4 million businesses globally. Get 20% off Square counter top hardware with promo code: SquareUK20

Visit Square.com to use the promo code or to request to speak to our sales team for a demo

Squareup Europe Ltd is authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority under the Electronic Money Regulations 2011 (registered reference no. 900846). Ts & Cs Apply*Offer commences August 7th and expires 31st October 2024 at 11:59 pm UK time or while supplies last, whichever comes first. Offer is for 20% off the total cost of your first purchase of Square Terminal, Square Stand or Square Register excluding VAT. Limited to 1 Square Terminal, 1 Stand and 1 Register per account holder. Code may be redeemed once only per account holder. Offer applies to UK customers only. Offer not valid with guest checkout. Square reserves the right to modify, revoke or cancel the offer at any time. Offer cannot be combined with any other discount. Offer void where prohibited, not redeemable for cash and is non-transferable.

#TechOnToast #RestaurantTech #Automation #DataDrivenDecisions #Innovation

🛠️ **How to Transform Customer Experiences with Data-Driven Digital Strategies** 🎧

🚀 **New Podcast Episode Alert on Tech on Toast!** 🎧

In this episode, we dive deep with Sam Hawker, the Head of Digital at Nightcap PLC, as he shares game-changing insights on how they’re revolutionising digital customer experiences using cutting-edge tools like Microsoft Clarity and Google Analytics.

Here’s what you’ll learn:

🔍 **Understanding User Behaviour:**

Sam talks about leveraging **Microsoft Clarity**, a free tool similar to Hotjar, to observe user interactions through heatmaps and click data. This has been pivotal in identifying and fixing user navigation challenges, making the customer journey smoother and more enjoyable.

📈 **Data-Driven Decisions:**

By meticulously setting up **Google Analytics**, Nightcap PLC tracks every click, inquiry, and booking, ensuring their digital marketing efforts are hitting the mark. Sam stresses the importance of integrating this data with CRM systems to maintain consistency and accuracy.

💡 **Maximising ROAS:**

Sam reveals how well-tracked **Google Ads** campaigns have yielded between 4-8x ROAS, showcasing the power of targeting high-intent audiences with precision.

📲 **Real-Time Engagement:**

During key events like the Euros, Nightcap PLC used **SMS messages**, **paid social ads**, and CRM tools to engage customers immediately after games, driving a surge in website traffic and conversions.

🎯 **Keyword-Driven Campaigns:**

Sam explains how they used **SEO and keyword research** to discover trending themes, such as garage-themed bottomless brunches, tailoring their offerings to boost engagement and customer satisfaction.

🔧 **Sweating the Tech:**

Sam emphasises the importance of using every tool at your disposal, from **Google Search Console** to **Tag Manager**, to track success and uncover growth opportunities.

💬 **Key Takeaway:**

Leveraging data-driven strategies isn’t just about tracking numbers—it’s about understanding your customers and tailoring your approach to meet their needs. This is how Nightcap PLC is transforming their digital initiatives into tangible success.

🚀 Ready to level up your digital game? Don’t miss this insightful episode on the **Tech on Toast Podcast**!

🎙️ **Listen now** and discover how you can implement these strategies to create unforgettable customer experiences and drive impressive results.

The Tech on Toast Podcast is brought to you by Square.

Square is trusted by over 4 million businesses globally. Get 20% off Square counter top hardware with promo code: SquareUK20

Visit Square.com to use the promo code or to request to speak to our sales team for a demo

Squareup Europe Ltd is authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority under the Electronic Money Regulations 2011 (registered reference no. 900846). Ts & Cs Apply*Offer commences August 7th and expires 31st October 2024 at 11:59 pm UK time or while supplies last, whichever comes first. Offer is for 20% off the total cost of your first purchase of Square Terminal, Square Stand or Square Register excluding VAT. Limited to 1 Square Terminal, 1 Stand and 1 Register per account holder. Code may be redeemed once only per account holder. Offer applies to UK customers only. Offer not valid with guest checkout. Square reserves the right to modify, revoke or cancel the offer at any time. Offer cannot be combined with any other discount. Offer void where prohibited, not redeemable for cash and is non-transferable.

#DigitalMarketing #CustomerExperience #SEO #AI #GoogleAnalytics #TechOnToast #HospitalityTech #ROAS #DataDrivenDecisions #Podcast #NightcapPLC